150,000
People in Mombasa are estimated to live in slums
Poor standard of living
While different industries have brought relative wealth to the city of Mombasa and the surrounding area, many people remain severely disadvantaged.
Over 150, 000 people in Mombasa live in slums in conditions of extreme poverty. Access to proper housing, sanitation facilities, water supply and sewage systems is rare. Under these conditions, diseases spread easily in overcrowded slums.
Unemployment is a common issue, and many families cannot afford to feed their children properly.
75%
Of the population in Mombasa’s slums live with HIV
The prevalence of HIV/AIDS
The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a challenge across all of Kenya.
In Mombasa too, the virus presents a serious problem. Especially in the slums, the infection rate can be incredibly high, with some estimates suggesting a rate as high as 75%.
This leaves many children and young people at risk of losing parental care, and has already lead to child-headed households in many cases.
Your support makes a difference for children in Mombasa
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
90
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergarten and school
120
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
![]()
Young people finding their creative streak during an afternoon art class. We work hard to make sure that children stay at school for as long as possible and try learning different skills (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Kenya).
How your support helps in Mombasa
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.